Windows 11 Context Menu: Performance Issues and Upcoming Improvements

The modern context menu in Windows 11 has been criticized for being slower than its counterpart in Windows 10, especially when certain extensions like Edit with Clipchamp, Edit with Notepad, and Ask Copilot are enabled. On low-end PCs, these extensions can take several seconds to load, often leading to misclicks. Microsoft has acknowledged this issue and is actively working on a solution.

While performance complaints regarding Windows 11 are not new, the problem gained traction only after widespread discussions on social media. In March 2026, Microsoft confirmed its efforts to address these concerns with a significant update aimed at refining the operating system. CEO Satya Nadella also emphasized the company’s renewed focus on fundamentals to regain user trust.

Why the Context Menu Matters

The right-click context menu is a fundamental part of the Windows user experience. However, while the modern menu in Windows 11 aimed to address clutter from previous versions, it inadvertently introduced new issues. The menu now suffers from slower load times, with some items appearing immediately while others take a second or two to show up, particularly on less powerful devices.

For instance, when opening a folder containing images and right-clicking on a .jpg file, users expect options like Paint, Photos, or Clipchamp to appear. On high-spec PCs, the menu may open almost instantly, but extensions often continue loading for a moment afterward. This delay can cause the menu to resize dynamically, shifting the cursor position and leading to accidental clicks.

Microsoft has acknowledged that these issues stem from late-loading extensions and is committed to addressing them. The company has also promised to make the context menu faster and less cluttered by default, ensuring it doesn’t overwhelm the screen, particularly for power users.

Microsoft’s Efforts to Simplify and Improve the Context Menu

Recent preview builds of Windows 11 showcase progress in optimizing the right-click menu. One notable change is the introduction of a new nested menu called “Manage file”. This menu consolidates file-related options such as Copy path, Set desktop background, and Compress to ZIP, reducing clutter and saving space.

The placeholder name “Manage file” may change when the feature is officially released. Initial tests conducted by Windows Latest reveal that this nested menu can reduce the vertical space of the right-click menu by at least 25%, depending on the number of items present. Although promising, these updates are still in the testing phase, and no release timeline has been confirmed yet.

Additionally, Microsoft is developing a “configurable” context menu, allowing users to add or remove items and personalize the menu according to their preferences. This long-requested feature eliminates the need for third-party apps or scripts, which often pose security risks. By integrating advanced customization options natively, Microsoft aims to give users greater control over their experience.

What’s Next for the Context Menu?

Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to improve the Windows 11 context menu reflect its commitment to addressing user feedback and enhancing the operating system’s usability. As these updates roll out, it will be interesting to see how they impact the overall experience for both casual users and power users alike.

What do you think? How can Microsoft further improve the right-click menu in Windows 11? Share your thoughts in the comments below!